Uncontested Divorce
It has become apparent to me that the term “UNCONTESTED DIVORCE” has a lot of people confused. An uncontested divorce is actually quite simple. In short, an uncontested divorce simply means that the two parties will have no dispute as to maintenance, child support, child custody or visitation, or equitable distribution. If you fit these criteria, then your marriage may be ended via an uncontested divorce. If there is a dispute to one or more of these issues that cannot be resolved by the parties, then the divorce will be transferred to the contested divorce calendar. Although the uncontested divorce process is less litigious, it is still wise to consult with and retain an attorney to ensure that the proper paperwork is completed and filed. Errors in the divorce papers themselves, or filing errors will result in extreme delays of the judgment. The uncontested divorce process on average will take anywhere between three to six months to complete. Errors can double or triple that time frame. Severe errors could lead to a dismissed case or a case being sent to the contested divorce calendar. Cooperation of the parties can significantly shorten the wait time for the divorce to be complete.
Long Island Divorce Attorney
If you have any questions on how to process an uncontested divorce as quickly as possible, please feel free to contact one of our attorneys at (516) 858-2620!
Many New York residents are unclear about what it takes to qualify for divorce. Putting residency requirements aside and before you get into property dispute issues, there exists a hurdle that must be met under New York law. This is to say that you need a legally acceptable reason to terminate a marriage. New York is not a state that accepts Irreconcilable Differences in its Domestic Relations Law. This has caused a great deal of controversy and has garnered much attention over the years. A March 31, 2009 article in the New York Daily News by Jose Martinez touched on how this has caused New York couples unnecessary aggravation (http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/state_of_shame/2009/04/01/2009-04-01_how_albany_is_divorced_from_real_world_n.html).
Domestic Relations Law in New York provides the acceptable divorce grounds to be:
1) cruel and inhuman treatment
2) abandonment for a period of 1 year or longer
3) imprisonment for a 3 year period subsequent to the date of marriage
4) adultery
5) conversion of a judgment of separation
6) conversion of a separation agreement after 1 year
Please note that New York now allows a no-fault divorce under DRL section 170(7).
Not sure if you fall into one of these categories? Call the Law Firm of Vaughn, Weber & Prakope, PLLC today at (516) 858 – 2620!
Please visit our Family Law and Divorce categories to learn more about Family Law and Divorce issues.
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